The Saints have already raised more than £1,400 towards their £2,000 target to help the self-employed Dawkin financially until he can get back to work following his injury.

And now United, where Dawkin had a loan spell from Norwich City in 2012, have offered to help the former Wales under-19 international with his rehabilitation.

A grateful Dawkin, who has also played for Cambridge City and St Neots Town, tweeted a text sent to him from United chief executive Jez George, who was first-team manager when the player came to the U’s, saying the club would offer him physio treatment.

George says: “Hi Josh. I’ve just read about your injury. I wanted to wish you well and offer you the support of our physios if there is anything we can do with your rehab. Jez.”